PERSPIRATION OVER PRESCRIPTION

By: Heather Bright

I waited in line at the pharmacy. I still couldn’t believe I handed over a prescription for an antidepressant moments earlier. What happened to me? It was almost Christmas, and my husband and I were finishing the hardest year we had ever experienced. I was mentally and emotionally worn out. It was exhausting trying to keep it together for everyone around me. I finally admitted to myself that I didn’t have it all together.  

I made an appointment with my doctor. Just a check up. As I walked into the office, I went over the nonchalant way I would bring up the feelings I’d been having. Near the end of the appointment, I fumbled through my explanation. It was as if I was embarrassed because I didn’t think he’d believe me.  

His simple response surprised me:  

“Heather, medicine may help you, but exercise would help even more.” 

I’ll admit I’d rather have a quick fix for just about anything in life, so the thought of spending hours at the gym did not appeal to me. My doctor knew me better than I assumed he did. I’ve never struggled with my weight. He had never before suggested I increase my physical activity in order to be healthier. I didn’t expect him to suggest it then.  

I half-heartedly agreed to exercise more, and asked if he’d still prescribe a low dose of the medicine “just in case.” 

Several days later, I took the first pill. It was Christmas Day. I hated the way it made me feel. It felt like I was experiencing all of our usual holiday traditions as a bystander on the outside even though I was right there in the midst of it. I tried another pill the next day, and decided that my mood and feelings with the medicine were equally dissatisfying as without it.  

I was discouraged. My doctor’s initial advice went through my head again. Soon after the start of the New Year, and the opening of the brand new REACH Center in Xenia, I joined the YMCA for the first time.  

I had been a member of a gym in the past, but I had only ever used the treadmill. I don’t hate to run, but I knew a treadmill was not going to hold my attention for the long-term commitment that was crucial to me getting healthy. There was so much equipment in the fitness room, and I had no clue how to use any of it! I made an appointment with a trainer to set me up with the ActivTrax program. Looking back, that appointment was the critical point in my success at the Y. When I not only learned how to us the equipment properly, but also had a guided plan for every visit to the Y, I felt empowered instead of embarrassed.  

After several weeks of consistent exercise, I felt entirely different. Before that, I would have never argued against the fact that our bodies operate optimally when we take care of ourselves. I knew that I was doing myself a disservice by ignoring regular exercise. The inclusive environment at the Y, along with the innovative program that makes a fitness regimen easy to follow, has enhanced my life in a way that I am incredibly grateful.  

I don’t have a before and after photo that shows a remarkable change. I’ve only lost about 4 pounds over the last 6 months. But I am healthier, leaner, and calmer than I have been in several years. My doctor helped me connect the dots between my physical and mental health. The YMCA continues to help me maintain a healthy body and mind.